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61 May 2005
Although this involvement takes time and creates challenges for work schedules, it
allows you to become more knowledgeable about the coaching, team values, behaviors,
and attitudes. Your child's behavior and attitude reflects a combination of the coaching
and your discussions about good sportsmanship and fair play.
It is also important to talk about what your child observes in sports events. When bad
sportsmanship occurs, discuss other ways the situation could be handled. While you
might acknowledge that in the heat of competition it may be difficult to maintain control
and respect for others, it is important to stress that disrespectful behavior is not
acceptable. Remember, success is not the same thing as winning and failure is not the
same thing as losing.
If you are concerned about the behavior or attitude of your child's coach, you may want
to talk with the coach privately. As adults, you can talk together about what is most
important for the child to learn. While you may not change a particular attitude or
behavior of a coach, you can make it clear how you would like your child to be
approached. If you find that the coach is not responsive, discuss the problem with the
parents responsible for the school or league activities. If the problem continues, you may
decide to withdraw your child.
Children and Sports, “Facts for Families,” No. 61 (05/05)
As with most aspects of parenting, being actively involved and talking with your children
about their life is very important. Being proud of accomplishments, sharing in wins and
defeats, and talking to them about what has happened helps them develop skills and
capacities for success in life. The lessons learned during children's sports will shape
values and behaviors for adult life.
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